PIFSC Scientist Receives Presidential Early-Career Award

July 23, 2012

Kyle Van Houtan

Today, President Obama named PIFSC Scientist Kyle Van Houtan as a recipient of the 2011 Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists
and Engineers. The award is the highest honor given by the federal government to outstanding scientists and engineers in the early
stages of their careers.

In a White House press release, the President named 96 researchers as recipients of the prestigious award.

"Discoveries in science and technology not only strengthen our economy, they inspire us as a people." President Obama said. "The
impressive accomplishments of today's awardees so early in their careers promise even greater advances in the years ahead."

Recipients of the award are employed or funded by the following departments and agencies: Department of Agriculture, Department of
Commerce, Department of Defense, Department of Education, Department of Energy, Department of Health and Human Services, Department of
the Interior, Department of Veteran Affairs, Environmental Protection Agency, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and the
National Science Foundation. These agencies annually nominate the most meritorious scientists and engineers. Awardees are selected for
their pursuit of innovative research at the frontiers of science and technology and their commitment to community service as
demonstrated through scientific leadership, public education, or community outreach.

The Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers was established by President Clinton in 1996. Awards are coordinated
by the Office of Science and Technology Policy within the Executive Office of the President.

Dr. Van Houtan's award was based on groundbreaking studies of the effects of climate on dynamics of sea turtle nesting populations and
his work in science education and outreach; find more details
here.